NewKerala.com

Odisha's Rs 20,000 Cr AI Hub to Transform from Mines to Mind Economy

The Odisha government has signed a strategic MoU with Sarvam AI to build a sovereign AI capacity hub, marking a decisive shift from a resource-based to a technology-led economy. The partnership involves a massive investment of around Rs 20,000 crore to establish a 50 MW AI-optimised facility equipped with nearly 25,000 GPUs. This initiative aims to position Odisha as a net exporter of compute power and develop population-scale applications in the Odia language to enhance public service delivery. The project, witnessed by President Droupadi Murmu, is expected to generate thousands of high-skilled jobs and accelerate progress towards the state's and nation's development visions.

Key Points: Odisha Partners with Sarvam AI for Sovereign AI Capacity Hub

  • Rs 20,000 crore investment in AI
  • 50 MW facility with 25,000 GPUs
  • Develop sovereign AI and Odia-language apps
  • Create thousands of high-skilled jobs
  • Shift from mineral to tech-led economy
2 min read

Reimagining growth: Odisha's shift to a technology-led economy

Odisha signs MoU with Sarvam AI for a 50 MW AI hub with 25,000 GPUs, aiming to become a net exporter of compute and develop Odia-language applications.

"From a mines-driven economy to a mind-driven economy, Odisha is redefining its growth trajectory. - Mukesh Mahaling"

Bhubaneswar, Feb 11

Odisha aims to become a net exporter of compute and develop population-scale Odia-language applications to strengthen last-mile public service delivery.

To realise this vision, the state government has forged a strategic partnership with Sarvam AI, an Indian artificial intelligence company, to develop a sovereign AI capacity in Odisha.

Informing about the landmark development in a video message, Odisha's Electronics and Information Technology department minister, Mukesh Mahaling, has said that Odisha has signed an MoU with @SarvamAI to build a sovereign AI capacity hub - a landmark step towards India's self-reliant AI future.

"This is not just a data centre; it is a strategic move to position Odisha as India's leading AI capacity provider. From a mines-driven economy to a mind-driven economy, Odisha is redefining its growth trajectory. Traditionally known for its mineral and metal-driven strengths, the State is now decisively transitioning towards a technology-led digital economy," Mahaling added.

He also underscored that the state government, in partnership with Sarvam AI, targets to establish a 50 MW AI-optimised facility with an investment of around Rs 20,000 crore, backed by significant capital investment incentives from the State.

"The facility will host nearly 25,000 GPUs, create thousands of high-skilled direct and indirect jobs, and firmly establish Odisha as a key pillar of India's sovereign AI and compute ecosystem, accelerating the journey towards Viksit Odisha, Viksit Bharat," noted Mahaling.

It is pertinent here to mention that the Odisha Government, on February 6, signed an MoU with Sarvam as part of the state's ongoing efforts to build a secure, inclusive, and Odia-first artificial intelligence ecosystem aligned with Vision 2036 and Vision 2047.

The MoU was signed in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu on the sidelines of the recently held Black Swan Summit 2026 in Bhubaneswar. The MoU gives impetus towards making AI a long-term public capability, with an emphasis on sovereign infrastructure, population-scale applications in the Odia language, and durable institutional capacity within the State.

The AI Sovereign Park in the state will make Odisha a net producer and exporter of compute to different states, a landmark step in today's digital age.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
Rs 20,000 crore is a massive investment. While the vision is good, I hope the focus remains on sustainable job creation and not just flashy infrastructure. We've seen many tech parks promise thousands of jobs that don't always materialize for the average graduate.
A
Aman W
As someone from Bhubaneswar, this is exciting news! Bhubaneswar is already a great IT hub, and this AI push can put us on the global map. "Sovereign AI capacity" sounds impressive – hope it reduces our dependency on foreign tech giants. Jai Odisha!
S
Sarah B
The emphasis on Odia-language applications is crucial for digital inclusion. If implemented well, this can bridge the gap for millions who aren't comfortable with English or Hindi. A great step for "Viksit Bharat" – development that includes everyone.
K
Karthik V
25,000 GPUs and a 50 MW facility... the scale is ambitious! Odisha could become India's compute powerhouse. This aligns with the national push for self-reliance in tech. Hope other states take note and invest in their own unique strengths.
M
Meera T
My respectful criticism: The article talks a lot about infrastructure and investment, but what about the actual problems it will solve? Will it help farmers get better prices? Improve healthcare in Kalahandi? The "last-mile delivery" promise needs concrete details, not just buzzwords.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50